For women who love exploring the outdoors, having the right hiking gear is essential. But did you know that women-specific hiking gear is a relatively recent innovation? The evolution of gear designed specifically for women is a fascinating journey—one that mirrors broader societal shifts in women’s roles in outdoor recreation.
Today, women’s hiking gear is widely available, with some brands dedicated entirely to designing clothing and equipment tailored to women’s needs. From the restrictive attire of the late 19th century to today’s high-performance, well-fitted gear, the outdoor industry has made significant strides in making hiking more comfortable, accessible, and inclusive for all women.
Early Days: The Era of Heavy Skirts and Boots (1800s - Early 1900s)
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, women’s hiking attire reflected current fashion and social norms rather than functionality. Women exploring the outdoors often wore long skirts, petticoats, corsets, high-necked blouses, and leather boots. Heavy wool garments were common—they provided warmth but were cumbersome and uncomfortable.
Clothing at this time was highly restrictive and impractical for hiking, making outdoor adventures challenging. Women who opted for more practical attire, such as split skirts or bloomers, often faced controversy and societal pushback for breaking conventional dress codes.
Mid-20th Century: The First Signs of Change (1920s - 1940s)
As social attitudes shifted and outdoor recreation gained popularity, women’s hiking attire slowly evolved. During the 1920s and 1930s, women began wearing breeches or knickerbockers with long socks, offering a looser fit that improved mobility.
By the 1940s, hiking outfits became more practical, incorporating rolled-up sleeve shirts, wide-brimmed hats for sun protection, and backpacks designed for comfort. Sturdy leather hiking boots also gained traction as footwear became more specialized for outdoor pursuits.
The Blend of Fashion and Function (1950s-1960s)
The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of outdoor brands like Eddie Bauer and REI, which began producing women-specific hiking gear. Synthetic materials, such as nylon, made clothing lighter and more water-resistant.
Hiking boots with rubber soles became increasingly popular, offering better traction and durability. This era also saw a rise in women joining organized hiking and mountaineering groups, further fueling demand for functional outdoor gear.
The Outdoor Revolution: Performance Gear for Women (1970s - 1980s)
The 1970s marked a turning point in outdoor gear innovation. With the rise of feminism and a growing interest in backpacking and adventure travel, companies started designing clothing and equipment specifically for women.
Revolutionary materials like Gore-Tex and polyester fleece improved weather resistance and comfort, making hiking gear more practical. By the 1980s, major outdoor brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, and REI recognized the growing market for women’s gear. Women-specific hiking pants, moisture-wicking base layers, and ergonomically designed backpacks became more common—though still not as widely available as men’s options.
High-Tech Fabrics and More Choices (1990s-2000s)
The 1990s and early 2000s welcomed a wave of innovation with high-performance materials replacing traditional cotton and wool. Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics became the norm, providing better sweat management and quick-drying capabilities.
During this time, women’s hiking apparel expanded in both variety and functionality. Convertible zip-off pants, quick-dry shirts, and fitted women’s-specific backpacks became standard offerings, making outdoor clothing more adaptable to changing conditions. Trail-running shoes also emerged as a lightweight alternative to heavy hiking boots.
Customization and Sustainability (2010s-Present)
Since the 2010s, women’s hiking gear has evolved significantly, prioritizing performance, comfort, and personal style. Today, it’s common for women to choose specific apparel based on the activity they participate in—such as moisture-wicking, breathable tops for running or UV-protective shirts for hiking. The demand for sport-specific gear has led to an increased focus on functionality without sacrificing style.
Sustainability has become a key priority, with brands incorporating eco-friendly materials such as recycled polyester and responsibly sourced merino wool into their products.
Additionally, the rise of athleisure has blurred the lines between outdoor apparel and everyday fashion. Women can now wear the same leggings, tops, and jackets from the grocery store to the gym and then onto the trails. This shift has been a game-changer in the world of fashion.
Many brands now offer size-inclusive and technical gear tailored to different body types and hiking styles, ensuring that women of all backgrounds and skill levels can find apparel that fits well and performs efficiently. As the outdoor industry continues to innovate, women’s hiking gear is more advanced, accessible, and empowering than ever before.
To make finding the right gear easier, we've created a dedicated page with expert recommendations tailored for every woman’s adventure. Whether you're setting out for a casual day hike or a multi-day trek, you'll find options designed for comfort, performance, and style. Check it out and gear up with apparel and equipment that have evolved to ensure every woman can explore with confidence and ease.
